In summary, the FCC is concerned that modern home voice services (telephone service) and other internet based communications may not work during power outages if not on a backup power source. This is due to the fact that most ISPs (Internet Service Providers) now run phone, internet, and television digitally. If you lose the internet connection, you lose it all.

The solution as outlined by the FCC is:

“Under the new rules, providers of modern home voice services (that is, facilities-based, fixed, voice residential service that is not line-powered) will be required to ensure that a technical solution for eight hours of standby backup power is available for consumers to purchase at the point of sale. Within three years, these providers will also be required to offer an option for 24 hours of standby backup power. The decision to purchase backup power will be up to consumers – they will not be forced to purchase or pay for equipment they do not want.”